Community leaders blast Bloomberg over 'thuggishly' comment

(12/26/05) THE BRONX ? Civil rights activists and minority leaders have blasted Mayor Michael Bloomberg (R-New York) for his use of the word ?thuggishly? to describe the Transport Workers Union?s decision to strike.

According to community leaders, Bloomberg?s choice of words was inappropriate and contained racial overtones. Some members of the law enforcement community say the word thug is typically used to describe criminals, not those who serve the public. Activists are now calling on the mayor to outline a framework for improved racial relations in New York City.

Those pressing the mayor over the issue say he has not been responsive to their request. However, activists say they?ll keep applying pressure to get Bloomberg?s attention.